African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APSS)

Dyer Island Conservation Trust has built a world class seabird sanctuary in Gansbaai, a first for the Overstrand area. The African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary officially opened on the 26th February 2015.

Set up to assist the endangered African penguin colonies of Dyer Island, where the species has declined dramatically at almost 90% over 30 years. This astonishing facility has a fully equipped lab and a vet on standby to treat birds immediately, thereby increasing survival rate.

Purposely built for the rehabilitation of marine birds, this centre is now also creating much needed awareness around the perils marine birds face out in the wild. Take a glimpse on the big screen TV of what is done behind the scenes in the Rehabilitation area, the Bird Hospital and the Laboratory/Clinic. Preventing added stress on the birds in rehabilitation by minimizing the amount of people allowed in the critical areas. With one way glass overlooking the Conditioning Pen – visitors can watch the birds in final preparation for release without any disturbance or interference. Sit down and enjoy some taste- bud satisfying coffee and cake and stroll through the curio shop which has the most adorable curios.

Entrance is free but donations are most welcome.

The sanctuary depends heavily on donations and a sponsorship brick can be purchased to contribute to the centre with tiered levels of support.